Strong to potentially dangerous storms are expected to impact a broad stretch of northern Illinois on Thursday, including DeKalb, Sterling, Dixon, Rock Falls, and Princeton, with forecasters warning of fast-moving storms capable of producing tornadoes and damaging winds.

The National Weather Service has placed much of the area under an Enhanced Risk (Level 3 of 5) for severe weather, with multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms expected throughout the day. While rain is already falling on Thursday morning, the greatest concern arrives later in the afternoon and early evening.

The National Weather Service says two windows for severe weather are possible. The first, from about noon to 4 p.m., could bring isolated severe storms if they become rooted in warmer air moving north. The more significant threat is expected between 4 and 9 p.m., when conditions may support supercells capable of producing damaging winds and tornadoes.

Areas along and west of Interstate 39, including Lee, Ogle, and Bureau counties, face a heightened tornado risk during that evening window.

Storms will be moving very quickly, at speeds up to 60 mph, which will significantly reduce warning times. Residents are urged to have a plan in place and be ready to take shelter quickly if warnings are issued.

Outside of thunderstorms, strong southerly winds will develop during the afternoon. Gusts of 45 to 50 mph are expected across much of the region, with a wind advisory in effect through early evening. These winds alone could knock down tree limbs, blow around unsecured objects, and lead to isolated power outages.

Heavy rainfall is also a concern. Several rounds of storms over the next 48 hours could bring widespread totals of 1 to 4 inches or more, with localized higher amounts possible. While widespread flooding is not expected on Thursday, ponding on roads and minor flooding in low-lying areas could occur.

Additional chances for severe weather continue Friday and possibly Saturday before a cooler, quieter pattern settles into the region early next week.